- Home
- Departments
- Public Safety
- Police Department
- Personnel Compliments & Complaints
- Terrell Police Department Complaint Process
Terrell Police Department Complaint Process
Terrell Police Department is committed to providing exemplary service in a professional manner that ensures all citizens and visitors a safe and secure environment. Police officers are asked to exercise their best judgement under stressful situations, often with limited information and time constraints. However, officers must be courteous, professional, and observe the rights of all citizens while performing their duties.
If a citizen believes an officer or employee has engaged in misconduct, a complaint may be filed. It is our policy to thoroughly investigate all complaints against the Department or its employees. This ensures department integrity while protecting the rights and interests of both citizens and employees.
The Complaint Process
Texas State Law (Government Code 614.022) requires that all complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. Just as citizens who are arrested must be notified of the charges against them, police officers must be given copies of complaints before any disciplinary action may be taken. The person who claims to be aggrieved must make the complaint; other persons may give statements as witnesses.
Please note: Traffic ticket issues or differences of opinion between officers and citizens over the issuance of the traffic ticket will not be investigated unless there is a specific allegation of misconduct against members of the Department.
Complaints are made by filling out a Complaint Form (PDF). The forms must be printed, completed, notarized, and returned in person to the Terrell Police Department. The complaint will be given to the Internal Affairs office for review and investigation.
False Complaints. People who intentionally make false complaints or allegations violate Chapter 37 of the Texas Penal Code. Texas law provides punishment for an individual who makes a False Report to a Peace Officer that is material to a criminal investigation. The Terrell Police Department provides this information to avoid retaliation against police officers or department staff.